1

How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.

2

I love thee to the depth and breadth and height

3

My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight

4

For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.

5

I love thee to the level of every day's

6

Most quiet need, by sun and candlelight.

7

I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;

8

I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.

9

I love thee with the passion put to use

10

In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.

11

I love thee with a love I seemed to lose

12

With my lost saints,--I love thee with the breath,

13

Smiles, tears, of all my life!--and, if God choose,

14

I shall but love thee better after death.